about us

We work with schools, organisations and families to deliver expert-led workshops that help young people understand gambling harms and make safer, more informed choices.

Free workshops are currently available for eligible settings in the Bristol City Council area. Organisations outside this area are welcome to contact us to discuss training, partnership work or future delivery opportunities.

Why We Exist

Ahead of the Game is part of Ara Recovery for All, a charity with over 35 years of experience supporting people and families.

We exist to help prevent gambling harm through education, early intervention and support. Our work helps young people understand risk, recognise harm and know where to find help.

Ara also provides free, confidential gambling support for adults across the South West of England, including one-to-one talking therapies, group support and support for family members or others affected by someone else’s gambling.

Mission

Vision

Who We Support

Young People (Ages 11-24)

We give young people the confidence and understanding they need to make informed decisions, stay in control, and look out for others.

Parents & Carers

We support parents and carers in recognising the risks young people may face, starting important conversations, and ensuring their safety.

Professionals

We work with professionals to help them identify risks, engage with young people effectively, and provide the necessary support to keep them safe.

Why Book Our Training?

Safeguard Young People

Learn how to spot gambling-related harm and protect young people in your care.

Understand the Impact

Discover how gambling can affect a young person’s mental health and wellbeing, especially if they are impacted by someone else’s gambling.

Build Confidence

Gain practical steps and strategies for identifying and supporting young people experiencing gambling harms.

Stay Ahead of the Trends

We monitor the latest gambling trends and emerging risks affecting young people, ensuring our content is always relevant and up-to-date.

Our Team

Our dedicated team brings expertise in education, safeguarding, and gambling harm prevention, delivering engaging workshops that empower young people and those who support them.

Dave Hewer (He/Him)

Education and Prevention Team Lead

Hi I’m Dave! I work across Wales and the Southwest. I love walks in the countryside and being around trees.

Fun fact: I’m related to one of the people who first adapted “land diving” into bungee jumping. I’m dyslexic too!

Vicky Castle (She/Her)

Gambling Education and Prevention Lead

Hi, I’m Vicky!

I’m based in Bristol and work across the South West. I love all forms of sport, beach walks on a windy day and spending time with family and friends.

Fun fact: I am a huge Crystal Palace Fan and went to see them win the FA Cup at Wembley.

Our feedback

Feedback from professionals who have taken part in our workshops, sharing their experiences and the impact on the young people they support.

Member of Staff

South Devon

I was really surprised to hear about the amount of gaming related gambling and how easily accessible it was for young people! Brilliant session for our learners.

Member of Staff

South Devon

It was shocking to learn about the excessive amounts of advertisements and the role gambling has to play in video gaming. Excellent lecturer and pitched effectively for young people with neurodiverse needs.

Member of Staff

South West England

An eye opener to new online gaming forms of gambling. Great workshop. Very useful and relevant for my students. Thanks!

M Snowdon

Head of PSHE, The King's School

The Gambling and Gaming Workshop that was provided by Adele at Ara, were absolutely wonderful. The students were thoroughly engaged throughout, and it was a fantastic opportunity. Adele did sessions, to a Year 8, 12 and 10s and the workshop covered everything and was spot on for each age group. We would absolutely love to see these sessions again in the future, and I would highly recommend to all schools. 

E Gue

Head of PD, Saltash Community School

The session that was delivered to our Y12 students was relevant, engaging, informative and interactive covering a wide range of useful content, Adele the presenter was engaging, knowledgeable and involved the students within the session, we are looking forward to further workshops/sessions that we have planned for our students.

Make a Difference Today

Help young people understand gambling harms, make informed choices and know where to find support.

Whether you are a school, local authority, commissioner, organisation or professional team, get in touch to discuss workshops, training or partnership opportunities.